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A new face has emerged on the battlegrounds of Street Fighter 6, and her name is Aki. This enigmatic character is no ordinary combatant; she is a poison-wielding apprentice of F.A.N.G, the former Shadaloo officer from Street Fight V. Aki brings a unique blend of cruelty and calculated precision to the world of Street Fighter, making her one of the most intriguing additions to the game's roster. A.K.I.'s Mysterious Background: Aki is a student of F.A.N.G, the infamous Shadaloo officer known for his mastery of poisons. Enchanted by the power of toxins, Aki revels in testing their lethal effects on her unfortunate targets. A.K.I.'s Persona: Initially, Aki presents herself as a calm and somewhat gleeful individual with knowledge of Chinese medicine. This facade, however, conceals a dark and sadistic personality that rivals even the cruelty of Juri Han, whose actions are often seen as a coping mechanism for her trauma. Aki has not only mastered the use of poisons but also takes pleasure in teasing her victims. Her sadistic tendencies can be seen on full display during World Tour mode. Snake-Like Behavior: Aki exhibits peculiar "snake-like" behavior and mannerisms, both in and out of combat. She often appears to "slither" on the ground and around her opponents, giving her an eerie and unsettling presence. This serpentine theme is reinforced by her unique "shi-shi-shi-shi" laughter, which can be interpreted as an imitation of snakes or a sinister utterance of "death" in Chinese. A.K.I.'s Gameplay: In combat, Aki's gameplay revolves around long-ranged nail swipes and poison attacks, complemented by her tricky movement. Her poison-infused strikes create opportunities for unique combos and strategies. Some of her poison attacks, like Serpent Lash, activate Toxic Blossom when they hit a poisoned opponent. This explosion not only ends the poison effect but also opens doors for devastating combo sequences. A Notable Addition from China: Aki proudly represents China in the Street Fighter universe, becoming the second playable female fighter from the country, following in the footsteps of the iconic Chun-Li. Aki's arrival in Street Fighter 6 introduces a character with a captivating blend of cruelty, poison mastery, and a penchant for psychological torment. As players step into her shoes, they will unlock the secrets of her snake-like demeanor and explore the artistry of poison-infused combat. Aki is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of Street Fighter, making her a character to watch and master in Street Fighter 6.

Wondering what the hottest and most anticipated fighting game is right now? Whether you're a seasoned fighting game pro or a newcomer eager to dive in, let's discuss why Street Fighter 6 is so good. 1. Character Variety: Street Fighter 6 launched with a roster of 18 diverse characters, each with unique archetypes. It introduced two new characters, Rashid and Aki, with more expected to join the lineup soon. The character redesigns are impressive and breathe new life into the beloved cast. 2. Longevity and Active Community: Street Fighter 6 is poised to remain active for the long haul, following the footsteps of its predecessor, Street Fighter 5, which remained vibrant for seven years. The game's vibrant community ensures that you'll find opponents and allies for at least the next 2-3 years. 3. The Innovative Drive System: Street Fighter 6 introduces the Drive System, a game-changing mechanic that adds depth and versatility. Characters can access five potent abilities governed by the Drive Gauge, including Overdrive special moves, Drive Rush, Drive Parry, Drive Reversals, and Drive Impact. The system offers an array of strategic options, all available from the start of each round, eliminating the need to build up meters over time. 4. Accessibility and Modern Controls: Street Fighter 6 caters to both classic and modern playstyles. Modern controls prioritize quicker reaction times and faster combos but come with a 20% damage reduction in certain moves. This flexibility allows players to choose their preferred approach, making the game accessible to all skill levels. 5. World Tour Mode and Immersive Single-Player Experience: Beyond multiplayer battles, Street Fighter 6 offers a captivating single-player experience in World Tour Mode. Create a character and dive into a Yakuza-inspired narrative, complete with arcade cabinets, customizable costumes, and character progression through experience points. Unleash your creativity and concoct powerful character combinations with unique move sets. 6. Thriving Multiplayer Community: Street Fighter 6 boasts a thriving multiplayer community across all platforms, ensuring you'll always find opponents to challenge. In conclusion, Street Fighter 6 stands as the quintessential fighting game experience, catering to veterans and newcomers alike. Its innovative mechanics, diverse characters, and extensive single-player offerings make it a must-play. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or looking to embark on your fighting game journey, Street Fighter 6 has something for everyone. Now, it's time to choose your favorite character and make them your main!

Are you a dedicated bedroom gamer eagerly searching for the latest gaming news? Well, you're in luck because I've got some exciting updates for you. If you're on the lookout for fantastic and free anime games for your PC, you've come to the right place! I've compiled a list of the best anime games that won't cost you a cent on Steam, your go-to platform for anime games on PC. So, stay tuned for the latest gaming news and get ready to dive into the world of free anime gaming goodness! Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis (MMOARPG) Phantasy Star Online 2, the latest installment in the beloved Phantasy Star series by Sega, is a free-to-play online action role-playing game that has garnered attention for several reasons. One of the standout features is its captivating art style and impressive graphics that truly enhance the gaming experience. While the game's story may not reach the heights of epic narratives, it offers an engaging backdrop for your adventures. However, where Phantasy Star Online 2 truly shines is in its combat system, which is undeniably enjoyable and keeps players coming back for more thrilling battles. Perhaps one of the most enticing aspects of the game is its free-to-play model, where you can fully engage without spending a dime. The only costs involved are for cosmetics, allowing you to personalize your gaming experience to your heart's content. Dive into this expansive online world and explore the wonders of Phantasy Star Online 2, where fantastic visuals and thrilling combat await. Omega Strikers (3V3 MOBA) Omega Strikers offers a fresh take on the classic 3 on 3 air hockey formula by introducing a diverse roster of heroes, each with their unique game-changing abilities. Picture this: one character deploys a formidable blockade that turns the puck into an impenetrable fortress, while another strategically positions her adorable slime companions on the field, expertly guiding the core toward the enemy goal. Exploring the full potential of each character's abilities might take a bit of time, but once you've unlocked their secrets, the game transforms into pure magic. Omega Strikers stands out as a superb and inventive multiplayer experience. It's remarkably easy to pick up and play, making it accessible to all, yet it offers a deep well of strategies and tactics to master for those seeking a rewarding challenge. Dive into Omega Strikers and discover a world of innovative multiplayer gaming that's both accessible and endlessly captivating. Eternal Return (MOBA, Battle Royale) Eternal Return's fusion of MOBA and battle royale elements presents a genuinely intriguing gaming experience. While several shooters have ventured into incorporating skills into their core gameplay, few have managed to do so effectively. Eternal Return, however, boldly stands out as a unique contender in the battle royale genre. By seamlessly blending MOBA mechanics and introducing the item crafting system from its predecessor, it carves a niche of its own. Admittedly, it may pose a bit of a learning curve for newcomers, but those who persist are rewarded with a diverse roster of entirely distinct characters. The game not only boasts visually stunning aesthetics but also delivers a sonically pleasing and functional experience. However, where Eternal Return truly shines is in its deep, engaging, and intense gameplay. While it may not hold your hand from the outset, it offers a rewarding journey for those who are up for the challenge. Dive into this innovative battle royale experience and uncover its rich tapestry of unique characters, immersive soundscapes, and gameplay that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Idol Showdown (Fighting Game) Idol Showdown stands as a testament to the boundless love for hololive, its dedicated fanbase, and the thrilling realm of fighting games. Crafted with unwavering devotion, this free unofficial fan-made project reimagines beloved hololive talents as the core archetypes of a fighting game, infusing a distinctive and enthralling twist into the mix. Prepare to plunge into absolute chaos on the battlefield as you immerse yourself in high-octane action, driven by a mesmerizing array of flashy attacks. What truly sets Idol Showdown apart is its exquisite pixel art, enveloping players in a visually breathtaking and nostalgia-inducing experience reminiscent of classic games. For enthusiasts of the fighting game genre, this creation offers a symphony of combos that guarantees hours of captivating gameplay. Idol Showdown is a testament to the seamless blend of fandom passion and gaming craftsmanship, extending an invitation for players to venture into a world where hololive's iconic talents seize the spotlight in a breathtaking and action-packed extravaganza that will captivate both novices and dedicated fans alike. SoulWorker (MMOARPG) SoulWorker emerges as a captivating anime-style MMOARPG that breathes life into the world of action gaming. Developed by Lion Games Studios in South Korea, this free-to-play title transports players to a world scarred by the haunting Void, a portal that unleashed demons upon it fifteen years ago. Fast forward to the present day, and children once lost to the Void mysteriously return, now imbued with supernatural powers, and they are known as SoulWorkers. In this gripping adventure, players can choose from an array of six unique characters, each wielding distinct weapons and skills that add depth to the gameplay. As the story unfolds, character skills can be honed through quests and daring dungeon runs, allowing for steady progression and a growing arsenal of abilities. Moreover, players can look forward to unlocking additional skills as they ascend through the ranks, ensuring that the journey in SoulWorker remains a dynamic and ever-evolving experience. Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel (TCG) Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel is a digital collectible card game that faithfully recreates the exhilarating experience of the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game, and it does so brilliantly, all while keeping up with the game's latest mechanics introduced up to 2021. In Master Duel, players can immerse themselves in the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe, navigating its distinct list of forbidden and limited cards, which stands independently from the Asian OCG and western TCG. It's a world where strategy and skill reign supreme, just like in the real-life card game. Much like its physical counterpart, Master Duel employs a gachapon-style approach for acquiring new cards, available in set packs. These can be obtained through task-rewarded gems and legacy tickets or via purchased gems that share the same pool as the free gems, offering players a variety of avenues to expand their card collection and embark on thrilling duels. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links (TCG) Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links successfully bridges the gap between the beloved Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card game and the digital gaming world. Notably, it distinguishes itself with its dynamic and high-speed gameplay, setting the stage for swift and thrilling duels. Here, players commence their battles with a mere 4000 life points, a departure from the traditional 8000, and wield decks of more concise sizes ranging from 20 to 30 cards. This streamlined approach not only injects intensity into each match but also caters to the convenience of on-the-go gaming. In comparison to Master Duel, Duel Links takes on a more casual demeanor, offering a gaming experience that leans towards accessibility and quick bouts of card-based excitement. Honkai Impact 3rd (ARPG) Honkai Impact 3rd emerges as a remarkable free-to-play 3D action role-playing game, a creation brought to life by miHoYo and published by the same studio. It immerses players in an enthralling narrative that orbits the ceaseless clash between alien invaders, known as the Honkai, and the unyielding human resistance, Schiksal. Set against a backdrop of the future, the game thrusts players into the midst of humanity's third harrowing war against the relentless Honkai, a conflict spanning centuries since their initial confrontations. Drawing inspiration from acclaimed titles like Devil May Cry, the original God of War trilogy, Marvel Ultimate Alliance, and even hints of Dark Souls, Honkai Impact 3rd intertwines these influences seamlessly. The game's controls are user-friendly, allowing players to execute stylish combos and orchestrate exhilarating tag-team maneuvers as they unleash their awe-inspiring ultimate abilities. This melding of gripping storytelling, familiar gaming inspirations, and accessible controls ensures that Honkai Impact 3rd stands out as a captivating and engaging gaming experience. Doki Doki Literature Club! (Date Sim) Doki Doki Literature Club! is a 2017 freeware visual novel that stands out as a unique and memorable experience. It's not your typical dating simulator; instead, it weaves together elements of romance, horror, and mystery, creating a one-of-a-kind narrative. Even when you think the game has concluded, it defies expectations and continues to surprise. I won't spoil any details for you; all I'll say is, it's a must-try, and the best part is, it won't cost you a dime. Find Love or Die Trying (Date Sim) "Find Love or Die Trying" is an intriguing dating simulator that takes a rather unconventional approach to matters of the heart. In this unique experience, you find yourself as a contestant on a dating show where the stakes are incredibly high – ending up single means ending up in a dire situation. Set on a tropical island, you have just seven days to win the heart of one of the charming ladies on this romantic getaway. Your mission: to make one of them fall in love with you and, ideally, put a ring on it. If you succeed, you both earn your freedom. However, if love doesn't blossom, the consequences are quite literally life-threatening, as the name of the show suggests. It's a daring premise that might leave you wondering why anyone would sign up for such a perilous quest for love. But, now that you're here, "Find Love or Die Trying" challenges you to navigate this high-stakes dating adventure. Will you succeed in finding love, or will you meet an untimely end? Only time will tell in this captivating and unconventional dating simulator. - And there you have it, a fantastic selection of 10 free anime games currently available on Steam for you to enjoy.

Was Cyberpunk 2077 a flop? Was it a disappointment at launch? Let's tackle that question and why it isn't such a big deal now. Despite a rocky beginning, the game is actually quite fantastic. A good game brings out emotions, tells a story, and looks great, right? Well, a great game goes beyond that. It lets you dive into a brand-new world with fresh eyes, ready to be amazed. You feel things, experience highs and lows, and it all feels strangely familiar yet completely different. Games like this are rare. Going into Cyberpunk 2077 without any spoilers or preconceived notions was the best way to kick things off. Cyberpunk 2077 seamlessly blends action, adventure, and RPG elements. Even after investing 60 hours into the game, I'm continually discovering fresh content and experiencing novel events. For me, Cyberpunk 2077 stands as the RPG of the decade. It reimagines how side quests work, how characters grow, and puts a strong focus on the choices you make. You can breathe new life into the game just by changing V's origin story. This game is meant to be savored, like a slow walk through a beautiful world. You can take a leisurely drive in the fancy car you worked hard for, spend an evening by the lakeside, or simply watch the bustling night city go about its business. The combat is exceptionally well-designed and fun, showcasing that, while Cyberpunk 2077 primarily falls within the RPG genre, its combat mechanics are finely tuned to complement its distinctive style, making it most enjoyable when appreciated for its unique approach. With the upcoming update, it's definitely worth revisiting if you're a fan of RPGs. Give it a shot, and you might just fall in love with Night City all over again.

The Cyberpunk series timeline has gone through quite a journey, like a rollercoaster ride! Back in 1988, they rolled out the first Cyberpunk game, Cyberpunk 2013, taking us into a dark future. Then came three more books to add meat to the story and characters. Fast forward to 1990, and they dropped Cyberpunk 2020, moving the timeline seven years ahead to, you guessed it, 2020. Night City came to life, and all those big corporations got juicy backstories. In 1993, they shook things up again with CyberGeneration, leaping forward another seven years and tossing in supernatural abilities for extra excitement. CyberGeneration even spun off into an alternate reality. Next, in 1997, we got the Firestorm books, designed to introduce the Fourth Corporate War concept and take us into the late 2020s-30s. Players faced off with Arasaka, with familiar faces like Morgan Blackhand and Johnny Silverhand in their corner. A third Firestorm book was planned but got folded into the Cyberpunk V3.0 rule book. Zoom ahead to 2005, and we met Cyberpunk Version 3.0. Now it's the 2030s, and the aftermath of the Fourth Corporate War, Arasaka's Night City nuke, and Net data corruption were all on the table. Some folks weren't too thrilled with these changes, though. Then, in 2013, CD Projekt RED grabbed the license and gave us Cyberpunk 2077, sending us way, way into the future. In 2018, they spilled the beans, revealing V, a lowly cyberpunk in Night City, as our new protagonist. But wait, there's more! Mike Pondsmith announced Cyberpunk RED, set before 2077, which caused some timeline shuffling. The official timeline is a bit up in the air, and parts of the Firestorm and Cyberpunk v3.0 books have been tucked away for now. With the Cyberpunk RED Jumpstart kit, we got some canon goodness: the Fourth Corporate War kicked off in 2021 and went official in 2022, the Net crashed in 2022 thanks to the DataKrash virus, and the Arasaka mini-nuke event, known as the "Night City Holocaust," shook things up in 2023. It's pretty wild how Cyberpunk's vision of the future, crafted long ago, didn't quite match our reality, isn't it? Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing, well, that's up for debate!

One of the common misconceptions in any creative industry is the idea that a designer's sole task is to create something beautiful. I, too, once believed this when I started my journey as a graphic designer. Many people pursue design because they want to craft cool and visually appealing things. If you aim to create stunning graphics, you become a graphic designer. If you're passionate about making an exciting game, you become a game designer. If your interest lies in fashion, you become a fashion designer, and so on. However, design, at its core, involves a creative process that turns ideas and concepts into practical, aesthetically pleasing, and functional forms. Whether it's about crafting physical objects, designing digital experiences, or creating conceptual frameworks, design requires a delicate balance between imagination, innovation, and utility. From architecture to fashion design, from graphic design to game design, a designer's role is to be both a visionary and a problem solver, actively shaping the world around us in meaningful ways. Regardless of the industry, the primary role of a designer is to provide practical solutions to address real problems. A good designer is characterized by their ability to creatively solve problems and find answers to the "how" in any challenge. As Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., once wisely said, "Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." So, when you collaborate with a designer for your project, regardless of the field, their ultimate responsibility is to resolve the problems you're facing. Anyone can create something cool, but it's the designer's job to ensure it functions in a way that suits your specific needs.

The Rich History and Ongoing Innovation in the Evolution of Tabletop Gaming Tabletop gaming, a world where imagination meets strategy, has an enduring and captivating history that has spanned centuries, contributing to the fascinating evolution of tabletop gaming. From ancient classics to the cutting-edge innovations of today, it's a realm where traditions collide with the future. In this article, I'll be your guide on this journey through the captivating evolution and promising future of tabletop gaming. But first, let's roll the dice and dive into the heart of the matter. Traditional Mechanics: The Foundation of Tabletop Gaming Rolling dice, the cornerstone of countless tabletop adventures, has transported us through the ups and downs of games like 'Snakes and Ladders' and 'Monopoly.' It's the thrill of the unknown, where luck wields its influence, that keeps us coming back for more. Who doesn't remember the joy of that perfect roll or the frustration of landing on your friend's property? In these classic games, luck is always involved, but there are other interesting mechanics that can shape a game's experience too. Set collection, the race to get certain cards or pieces before your opponents, has been a driving force behind games like 'Old Maid' and the property-acquiring extravaganza of 'Monopoly.' As we traded properties, forged alliances, and tactically arranged our assets, we discovered the power of strategy in a world where every move mattered. Then, there's 'Scrabble,' a captivating puzzle game that drew us to the table with its clever wordplay. It wasn't just about forming words; it involved tapping into our vocabulary skills and forging a route to triumph solely through the arrangement of letters. These traditional mechanics are the backbone of tabletop gaming, the time-honored traditions that have laid the foundation for what's to come. Modern Mechanics: Embracing Asymmetry and Cooperation In the contemporary tabletop gaming landscape, the concept of asymmetry plays a central role, bringing a diverse array of experiences to the table. Many games now offer players the opportunity to select unique characters, each endowed with distinct abilities that can significantly alter gameplay. This diversity extends beyond character selection, as players may also pursue varying objectives to secure victory. For instance, in games like 'Dead of Winter' and 'Secret Hitler,' players grapple with hidden roles, where some may be betrayers among friends, each harboring their own set of win conditions. This dynamic shift towards asymmetry introduces a new dimension to strategy, ensuring that each game unfolds in a unique and unpredictable manner. Cooperative gameplay further amplifies this evolution, breaking away from the conventional boundaries of competition. In these cooperative games, victory isn't always an individual pursuit; instead, it becomes a collective triumph where individuality thrives within the context of a shared goal. What would Tabletop gaming look like in future? Now, let's fast forward to the future teeming with possibilities. Here, augmented reality (AR) takes center stage, promising a higher level of immersion. Picture a tabletop game where digital overlays seamlessly integrate with physical game pieces. Seamlessly is the key here. It's not just a game; it's an experience that blurs the lines between the real and the virtual. As game designers, we hold the keys to unlock this world of limitless possibilities by blending classic and modern mechanics with cutting-edge modern technologies. Personally, AR in tabletop games ignites my enthusiasm like nothing else. The prospect of easily accessible AR experiences that transport us into fantastic realms is thrilling. Imagine wielding magical powers or embarking on epic quests, all within the confines of your tabletop. It's a vision of gaming that knows no bounds, and I'm excited to see it become a reality. Conclusion In closing, tabletop gaming is a universe in constant motion, a realm where history and innovation converge in the ever-evolving journey of tabletop gaming. It's a world where rolling dice and shrewd strategy coexist, where every move is a step toward victory. As we journey through the annals of time and peer into the future, one thing is clear: tabletop gaming shows no signs of slowing down in its fascinating evolution. It's a thriving, evolving world that beckons players old and new, and it's poised for a future filled with limitless possibilities. So, roll the dice, craft your deck, embrace asymmetry, and dive into the immersive world of AR. The tabletop is your stage, and the adventure is just beginning.

The debate over whether playing games requires skill has been a topic of contention among gamers and critics alike. Some argue that gaming merely demands rote memorization and knowledge of in-game mechanics, while others maintain that true skill encompasses a combination of expertise, strategy, and quick reflexes. To fully understand the nuances of this debate, it is essential to explore the difference between skill and knowledge in gaming. Skill in gaming is best defined as the ability to perform specific actions or tasks within a game effectively. It encompasses a range of attributes, including hand-eye coordination, reaction time, decision-making, and adaptability. In skill-based games, players are required to master the game mechanics and demonstrate proficiency in executing actions with precision and finesse. Whether it's landing headshots in a first-person shooter, executing complex combos in a fighting game, or achieving precise timing in a rhythm game, skill plays a pivotal role in determining success. On the other hand, knowledge in gaming pertains to understanding the rules, mechanics, and strategies inherent in a particular game. Knowledge-based gameplay requires players to learn and internalize game-specific information, such as level layouts, enemy patterns, item locations, and tactical approaches. This information allows players to make informed decisions, plan strategies, and optimize their gameplay experience. In knowledge-based games, players who possess in-depth knowledge of the game's intricacies often gain a competitive advantage over those who rely solely on instinct. To differentiate between skill and knowledge in gaming, it is helpful to consider a few examples: Chess: Chess is a quintessential example of a knowledge-based game. Success in chess heavily relies on understanding the rules, learning various strategies, and anticipating your opponent's moves. While players need cognitive skills to analyze the board, the game's essence lies in strategic thinking and outmaneuvering the adversary. League of Legends: In contrast, League of Legends is a skill-based game where players control characters (champions) and engage in fast-paced battles. Success in League of Legends demands mastering champion abilities, precise aiming, quick decision-making, and teamwork. While knowledge of champion abilities and game mechanics is essential, skillful execution during intense skirmishes can ultimately determine the outcome. In reality, most games require a balance of both skill and knowledge for success. The best players are those who possess a combination of finely tuned reflexes, strategic acumen, and deep understanding of the game's nuances. While skilled players can gain a competitive edge, they must also leverage their knowledge to optimize their performance. It is worth noting that different games emphasize skill and knowledge to varying degrees. Games like chess and strategy games heavily prioritize knowledge, whereas action-packed games like first-person shooters and fighting games emphasize skill. Additionally, games often offer varying levels of complexity, allowing players of different skill levels to find enjoyment and challenge at their own pace. Ultimately, whether playing games requires skill or knowledge is a nuanced and multifaceted question. The best players in any game typically demonstrate a fusion of both attributes, utilizing their expertise, adaptability, and strategic thinking to excel. As gaming continues to evolve, the interplay between skill and knowledge will remain at the heart of what makes gaming an exhilarating and rewarding pursuit.

In the very exciting world of games, the allure of immersive storytelling has captivated players since the very beginning of time. Game designers understand the power of narratives to evoke emotions, engage their players, and elevate the overall gaming experience. Compelling storytelling in games can transport players to beautifully crafted worlds, offering a sense of agency and emotional engagement that makes for a very memorable gameplay experience. Let's explore the significance of storytelling in game design and analyze how it enhances the player's experience through some of my favourites. A well-crafted story has the power to resonate with players on an emotional level. When players connect with characters and the game's world, they become more invested in the outcome. When players become emotionally invested, they would want to see the journey through and discover what happens if they keep playing. This is the same regardless of whatever genre of game you are playing, whether it's a video game, or a tabletop board game, storytelling is a very important part of the gameplay experience for a player. It doesn't mean that it has to be a complicated or long-winded story, but it has to be engaging to the player. Playing games offer a chance for players to escape into a fantasy world and experience something different from their daily life. Here are some games that I think have very good storytelling. NieR: Automata An action role-playing game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, and alien machines have taken over the Earth. The story is deep and philosophical, exploring themes of humanity, consciousness, and existentialism. This game, is hands down my favorite in terms of storytelling for games. It isn't the gameplay that makes Nier: Automata so great for me but the story that it tells. It dropped my jaws multiple times with it's exciting story revelations, making me play the game over and over again to experience more and more of the story, uncovering parts of the story each time I do. Persona 4 A role-playing video game developed and published by Atlus. Set in the rural town of Inaba, Persona 4 follows a high school student who moves there from the city and stays with his uncle and little cousin. However, a series of mysterious murders begins to occur, and the protagonist and his friends discover a strange connection between the murders and a parallel world called the TV World. This leads them to awaken their "Persona," a manifestation of their inner selves, which grants them the power to combat the shadows in the TV World. So, I've played Persona 3, 4 and 5. And my top choice from these 3 in terms of storytelling is Persona 4. Persona games has always been about the relationship you have with your companions, and with Persona 4, I find the characters very likable and genuine. At the end of the game, it really feels like a memory and your journey with your unexpecting close friends have come to an end of a chapter. Hades An action-packed roguelike video game by Supergiant Games, where players follow Zagreus, Hades' son, on a quest to escape the underworld and reach Mount Olympus. There are so many likable characters in this game, I find myself listening to every dialogue and not skipping them. The character develops in a very relatable way as the story progresses making it really difficult to put down even after playing for hours. In conclusion, storytelling is an integral aspect of game design that elevates the player's experience and emotional connection to the game world. By creating compelling narratives, game designers can immerse players in richly crafted worlds, evoke powerful emotions, and offer a sense of agency that keeps players engaged and invested in the game. - Meowchelin Stars, which is a tabletop card game that I am creating now, started with the narrative and storytelling at the forefront of the game's design. At first it was simple, it was about preparing the most delicious cat food, and have these gourmet cats judge your food. Eventually after trying the game out and sharing it with some of my close friends and family, the story evolved. Meowchelin Stars is about a culinary competition, where you and the other players are the boss of your own kitty restaurant and you hire professional meow chefs to help you in your kitchen. So you and your friends will be competing in the hiring process of these professional chefs as well as buying the dishes for your Meowchelin Star restaurant.

So firstly, this is a very... very subjective topic. What makes a game fun for me, might not be fun for you. And honestly, I think that is what makes playing games so awesome. Luckily for us, there are so many options out there that the possibility of finding something you enjoy and love playing is definitely 100%. While the idea of fun may be subjective, I think that the things that makes a game fun is absolute. What makes a game fun for the player, is whether they experience a sense of achievement or not. With the sense of achievement, the player feels engaged, and thus will be having fun. This is something that is very tricky to tackle for game designers. Like many things in life, different people experience the sense of achievement in different ways. Some people enjoy a very brutal challenge... Just take a look at games such as the Dark Souls series, the gameplay is considered very challenging for most players, even the players who play a lot of it, but that is what makes it fun for them. Some people enjoy easy, cozy games, such as Animal Crossing, where you just take a vacation in a video game, and that is fun for some people as well. Some people like to solve puzzles, or do mathematical calculations, or even social tabletop games... you get the idea. So is it a good idea to try to put everything in a game and make everyone happy? I think this is kinda like food. While different flavors are amazing, putting all the amazing flavors together might not work.. A game that is fun to it's player has to have the level of challenge relevant to it's genre, it has to challenge the player to think and come up with their own way of playing, depending on the type of game, of course. The player has to have an interesting way to interact with the game they are playing and receive feedback based on their actions. They have to experience some level of progression with the game as well. If a player gets all these experiences playing a game, they will be having fun. For people who think they don't like games, I'm sure that if you look, you will find.

So it's been quite an exciting journey creating my tabletop card game - Meowchelin Stars. I was thinking that it would be a cool idea to share some of what I've learned, both within Kyubi Games, as well as my years working in the creative industry. This space should allow me to talk about what I believe works best in the fields of game design, and eventually allow me to connect with people sharing opinions and the topic we all love - games. Alright so let's get into the topic today, what IS the most important concept in designing a game? There are multiple aspects of game design to consider when designing a game, such as the gameplay mechanics, game loop as well as the objective and win conditions. But amongst them all, I personally think that one of the most important things to consider is the player's agency. Let me explain. Player agency refers to the player's ability to influence the game that they are playing based on the choices that they make. It's the amount of freedom the game designer gives to the player. For example; you are playing a game where you are supposed to save a princess from a certain situation, and depending on whether you successfully save her or not, the outcome will lead you to a different event. Maybe the princess will become an enemy if you fail to save her, maybe she will join your team as another character if you successfully save her. This creates immersion for the player and gives the player a reason to do something within the game, instead of a linear experience. Of course, it depends on the kind of games you are making, obviously if story narrative is the biggest focus, such player agencies would be lesser. But it can still come in different forms, like your character's customization and progression. I believe that a game's replayability, whether it is a video game or a tabletop game, is very much affected by whether you can get a different outcome everytime you play or not. A classic game like Super Mario, doesn't have a lot of player agency, you simply get better if you play it a lot, but the experience is very much the same. I think that it is a lot more interesting when there are many ways that you can play a game and win. This makes you want to play the game again and again trying different strategies and approaches. What you do you think though?